An armed robber who targeted Lewisham bookmakers has been jailed for 10 years.

Okeeno Blair, aged 23 and of Woodvale in Forest Hill, was found guilty of conspiracy to commit robbery and conspiracy to commit false imprisonment after a two-week trial at Woolwich Crown Court.

Blair was sentenced at the same court today.

Blair was involved in five "terrifying and brazen" robberies at Ladbrokes branches in the Lewisham area between November 30 last year and January 8.

Blair along with an unknown accomplice would approach the victims on the street, threaten them at gunpoint, forcing them to hand over the keys to the premises, the shop’s alarm code, and their mobile phone or phones.

One of the robbers would hold the victim captive, while the other entered the premises and stole cash before leaving on foot.

The total amount stolen was £27,400.

Blair was identified after Flying Squad detectives analysed CCTV footage and forensic evidence found at the scene of the robberies and was arrested on January 11

Detective Inspector Nick Blackburn, of the Met’s Flying Squad, said: “Blair was responsible for carrying out this spree of terrifying and brazen robberies over approximately six weeks.

"A number of Ladbrokes employees had a gun pointed at them, and they feared for their lives. His prompt arrest and conviction has averted a potential serious threat to public safety and commercial premises in particular."